Extra patrols to stop rail trespassers in West Midlands

Patrols are being stepped up on West Midland rail lines during the half-term break to stop young people from trespassing.

Network Rail said some of the worst areas were between Birmingham and Coventry and the West Coast Mainline.

It said in the past year in Coventry a shopping trolley was put on the line and stones were thrown at trains.

British Transport Police (BTP) said extra officers would be patrolling some of the worst areas.

Sgt Jeff Nelson, who is based in Coventry for BTP, said: "I do not want to be the person who knocks on your door to deliver the news that your child has been seriously injured or killed after playing on the railway.

"This is not about stopping children having fun - it is about keeping them safe from harm."